Admire The Astana: Residence of Sarawak’s White Rajahs
The Astana, or ‘Palace’ in English, always features on lists of the must-visit attractions in Kuching. Sitting elegantly on the banks of the River Sarawak, the 1870 colonial palace exudes grandeur. Formerly the residence of Sarawak’s White Rajahs, it’s now the Governor of Sarawak’s seat and isn’t open to the public. Manicured lawns and a fence surround the palace with ‘Astana’ spelled out in giant white letters. Stand on the opposite side of the river for the best photographs. Return after dark when the palace lights up.
Stroll Along Kuching Waterfront
Kuching Waterfront hugs the southern banks of the Kuching River which divides the capital. The walkway provides views of the river, access to hotels and restaurants as well as vendors hawking snacks and street food. Stretching for almost one kilometre (0.6 miles), visitors can watch the sunset, snap a photograph next to the First White Rajah of Sarawak and visit Kuching’s oldest Taoist temple at Tua Pek Kong.
Tua Pek Kong Temple
Dating back to 1843, Tua Pek Kong holds the title as Kuching’s oldest Chinese temple. Located in the heart of the city centre near the Waterfront and Chinese Museum, the colourful façade welcomes curious visitors. While the Taoist temple might not be an obvious entry into the list of the must-visit attractions in Kuching, it does provide cultural insights into the city’s past and hosts several annual festivals.
Fort Margherita and Brooke Gallery
The prominent Fort Margherita stands on the northern banks of the Sarawak River. The Second White Rajah Charles Brooks built the fort in 1879 to defend the city against pirate attacks and named it after his wife, Margaret. Today, it houses the recently opened Brooke Gallery with relics, artefacts and historical documents detailing Sarawak’s early Statehood under the White Rajahs. Fort Margarita sits inside the police barracks and tourists might need to show ID before entering.
Sarawak Cultural Village
Embrace Local Culture at Sarawak Cultural Village, 35 kilometres (21.7 miles) north of Kuching in Damai, it offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in Sarawakian tradition. The open-air museum features a collection of longhouse replicas such as ones the infamous former headhunting Iban tribes lived in, Malay kampung-style dwellings and Chinese farmhouses. Stroll through the village and see traditional instruments inside the Rainforest Music House or follow jungle trails to the foot of Mount Santubong. Families and tourists interested in Sarawak’s rich cultural and ethnic heritage rate this as one of the must-visit attractions in Kuching.